The consequences of these battles are now visible on a massive humanitarian scale. Waves of Sudanese families, many carrying only essential belongings, are crossing into Chad, one of the poorest countries in the region, which struggles to absorb the influx. Makeshift refugee camps have quickly sprung up along the border, but the lack of food, clean water, and medical supplies is creating a crisis within a crisis. Many women and children face extreme vulnerability, experiencing starvation, rape, and death in El Fasher. The refugee surge in Chad has overwhelmed local infrastructure, and during UNHCR protection interviews, many refugees report dire conditions, highlighting the life-saving needs in Chad that remain unmet. Overcrowding and poor sanitation have raised concerns of cholera risk in refugee camps.
Arab News highlights the political dimension of the conflict, noting that regional powers are closely watching Sudan’s developments. Neighboring countries are jostling for influence, while global powers weigh their strategic and economic interests. Sudan’s internal chaos has allowed foreign actors to leverage both resources and political power, turning the nation into a high-stakes geopolitical chessboard. The fall of El Fasher has sparked widespread criticism of US neutrality, further complicating international diplomacy.
Meanwhile, local populations face an increasingly dangerous environment. Schools have closed, hospitals are overwhelmed, and basic services have collapsed in many urban centers. Tragic incidents, such as the Zamzam refugee camp massacre, underscore the scale of violence targeting civilians. The latest wave of refugees stems from violent displacement since Darfur attacks, particularly in North Darfur, and aid groups note the disproportionate impact on women and children.
In strategic regions, violence continues unabated. A recent deadly Kordofan attack killed at least 40 civilians, while new offensives in West Kordofan have caused widespread displacement. Independent monitors report that forced displacement is nearing one million in eastern Chad alone.
Experts on African geopolitics warn that Sudan’s resource wealth is both a blessing and a curse. While oil and gold provide potential for economic growth, their control has become a central driver of violence. Multinational companies and regional powers have shown interest in securing stakes, often indirectly fueling the conflict. The result is a vicious cycle where resource competition prolongs the war, further destabilizing the nation and its neighbors. Calls for accountability have intensified, with the UN probe into RSF atrocities aiming to investigate war crimes and human rights violations.
Chad, already struggling with its own economic and social challenges, faces mounting pressure as it accommodates refugees. Aid agencies warn of worsening hunger in neighboring countries, while observers note the spillover into Chad’s political instability as its fragile infrastructure struggles to cope with the refugee influx.
